The Rising Popularity of Coconut Charcoal in Shisha Hookahs Coconut charcoal is becoming increasingly popular in shisha hookahs, and for good reason, too. Shisha hookahs have been around for centuries, and the charcoal used to heat them has traditionally been made from wood. However, as awareness grows about the environmental effects of deforestation and unsustainable forestry practices, people are looking for alternative options. Coconut charcoal, made from the shells of coconut fruit, is a highly renewable and eco-friendly source of fuel that is quickly gaining recognition in the shisha hookah community.